Creamy Leftover Rice Pudding

Featured in: Sweet Whispers

Transform leftover cooked rice into a smooth, creamy dessert by simmering it gently with milk, sugar, and fragrant cinnamon. This simple method yields a comforting dish with the option to enhance flavor using vanilla extract or a pat of butter near the end of cooking. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, delightful touch. Variations include adding dried fruits or nuts for added texture and sweetness.

Updated on Wed, 25 Mar 2026 01:10:25 GMT
A warm bowl of creamy Rice Pudding with leftover rice, dusted with sweet cinnamon and ready to serve. Save
A warm bowl of creamy Rice Pudding with leftover rice, dusted with sweet cinnamon and ready to serve. | butterhollow.com

A creamy comforting dessert made from leftover rice gently sweetened with sugar and infused with warm cinnamon.

Rice pudding has always been a nostalgic treat for me especially when there is leftover rice waiting to be transformed into something special. The creamy texture and fragrant cinnamon scent make it a beloved dessert in my home.

Ingredients

  • Cooked leftover rice: 2 cups (white or jasmine preferred)
  • Whole milk: 2 cups (or any milk of choice)
  • Granulated sugar: 1/3 cup
  • Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
  • Vanilla extract: 1 tsp (optional)
  • Salt: Pinch
  • Unsalted butter: 1 tbsp (optional)
  • Ground cinnamon, for garnish: As needed

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Instructions

Combine base ingredients:
In a medium saucepan combine the cooked rice milk sugar and cinnamon.
Simmer:
Place over medium heat. Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
Thicken pudding:
Lower the heat and cook uncovered stirring often for 15 to 20 minutes until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
Add flavorings:
Stir in vanilla extract salt and butter (if using) during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Final step:
Remove from heat. Let cool slightly; pudding will thicken as it cools. Serve warm or chilled sprinkled with extra cinnamon.
Save
| butterhollow.com
Save
| butterhollow.com

This rice pudding is a favorite at family gatherings where everyone enjoys customizing their bowl with sweet toppings and extra cinnamon.

Required Tools

Medium saucepan wooden spoon or spatula measuring cups and spoons serving bowls

Allergen Information

This recipe contains milk (dairy). If using alternative milks or spices check all packaging carefully.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 210 Total Fat 4 g Carbohydrates 40 g Protein 5 g

Delicious, thick Rice Pudding with leftover rice, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, perfect for dessert. Save
Delicious, thick Rice Pudding with leftover rice, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, perfect for dessert. | butterhollow.com
Delicious, thick Rice Pudding with leftover rice, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, perfect for dessert. Save
Delicious, thick Rice Pudding with leftover rice, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, perfect for dessert. | butterhollow.com

Enjoy this rice pudding warm or chilled for a comforting finish to any meal.

Kitchen Tips & Answers

โ†’ Can I use other types of rice for this dish?

Yes, jasmine or white rice work best, but almost any leftover cooked rice can be used to achieve creamy results.

โ†’ What milk alternatives can be used?

Whole milk is traditional, but plant-based milks or half-and-half can add creaminess and accommodate dietary needs.

โ†’ How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan?

Stir frequently over medium heat and maintain a gentle simmer to avoid burning or sticking.

โ†’ Can extra flavors be added?

Yes, vanilla extract is added near the end; dried fruits or nuts also complement the dish well.

โ†’ How thick should the final consistency be?

Cook until the mixture thickens to a creamy, spoonable texture that holds shape but is not overly stiff.

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Creamy Leftover Rice Pudding

Comforting creamy dessert using leftover rice gently sweetened and infused with cinnamon.

Prep duration
5 min
Heat duration
20 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created by Ella Thompson


Skill level Easy

Heritage International

Output 4 Portions

Eating preferences Meat-free, No gluten

What you'll need

Base

01 2 cups cooked leftover rice (white or jasmine preferred)
02 2 cups whole milk
03 1/3 cup granulated sugar

Flavorings

01 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
02 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Finish

01 Pinch of salt
02 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
03 Ground cinnamon for garnish

Method

Phase 01

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.

Phase 02

Heat Mixture: Place over medium heat and stir frequently until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer.

Phase 03

Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered, stirring often, for 15 to 20 minutes until thickened to desired consistency.

Phase 04

Incorporate Final Ingredients: Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and butter if using, during the last two minutes of cooking.

Phase 05

Rest and Cool: Remove from heat and let cool slightly; mixture will thicken further as it cools.

Phase 06

Serve: Serve warm or chilled, sprinkled with additional ground cinnamon.

Kitchen tools needed

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowls

Allergy details

Always review individual ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains milk (dairy).
  • Check labels carefully when substituting plant-based or flavored milks.

Nutrient breakdown per portion

Numbers shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 210
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Proteins: 5 g

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